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5 August: what is celebrated today
The fifth of August is a peculiar date that brings together four very different celebrations. International Traffic Light Day recalls the importance of road safety; “Work Like a Dog” Day inspires productivity; and Straight Corkscrew Day offers a creative look at everyday life. Each with its own history, they make this day a time for thought, effort and unexpected discoveries.
International Traffic Light Day: three colours of order
Its origin dates back to 5 August 1914, when the first electric traffic light, devised by James Hoge, was installed in Cleveland, USA. In 1926, the first one was installed in Madrid, making it Spain’s first traffic light, at the junction of Barquillo and Alcalá streets.
Some interesting facts:
In London, there is a traffic light with four signals, including a white one for pedestrians.
In Japan, blue replaces green for cultural reasons.
Berlin is home to a museum with more than 200 traffic lights from different periods.
Celebrations include educational activities for children, exhibitions of retro traffic lights and even flash mobs in costume.
Work Like a Dog Day: the value of dedication
Born in the USA in the early 2000s as an alternative to Laziness Day, it promotes productivity inspired by dogs’ dedication. Nowadays, many companies use the date to motivate their teams.
Corporations put up themed posters and award symbolic prizes to their most dedicated employees. In Japan, it even has institutional recognition, in a country where hard work is an essential part of the culture.
Straight Corkscrew Day: everyday creativity
This unusual celebration commemorates 5 August 1828, when French inventor Jean-Baptiste Champigny patented an improved version of the corkscrew.
Interesting facts:
The Wine Museum in Paris preserves more than 1,200 models.
The world’s most expensive corkscrew costs $10,000 and is made of titanium with gold inlays.
In Italy, there is a three-metre corkscrew for giant bottles.
Activities include exhibitions of original designs, workshops on opening bottles without tools and wine tastings with technique demonstrations.